St Brigid's concert featuring Cathy Jordan and Fergal Murray in Strokestown this Sunday

Strokestown Park is delighted to announce a captivating evening of musical enchantment as part of the Brigid’s Awakening Festival 2024.

On Sunday, 4th February 2024, renowned Irish singer Cathy Jordan, hailing from Scramogue, Co. Roscommon, will take the stage alongside noted pianist and composer Feargal Murray to perform 'Storybook – The Songs of Brendan Graham.'

This not-to-be-missed event will unfold within the captivating surroundings of Strokestown Park, with doors opening at 6.30 pm to usher in a night of unforgettable musical experiences.

Brendan Graham, the prolific Mayo-based songwriter behind iconic tunes such as 'You Raise Me Up,' 'Rock ‘n Roll Kids,' and 'The Voice,' boasts an impressive repertoire.

His compositions have resonated with audiences globally, adorning events ranging from the Olympic Games to the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony.

Graham's genius has earned him accolades such as being 'touched by genius' (Evening Herald), 'Musical Midas' (The Irish Times), and 'One of the most in-demand songwriters in the world' (Hot Press).

Cathy Jordan, celebrated for her soulful and captivating voice, will be joined by pianist and composer Feargal Murray by special guest Alan Kelly. Their musical partnership with Brendan Graham spans over three decades, reflecting a harmonious synergy that has endured the test of time joined.

“It’s been nearly three decades since I first met songwriter Brendan Graham.  Brendan asked me to record some demos of newly composed songs associated with his first novel - The Whitest Flower. Up until that point I never really gave much thought to the songwriting process having sung mostly traditional songs where the author was unknown.

“This collaboration, however, was to become one of the most important in my career. It became a mentorship and masterclass in songwriting, as well as a cherished friendship, for many years,” said Cathy Jordan.

Alan Kelly.

This exceptional concert is a part of the Brigid’s Awakening Festival, commemorating the first national holiday dedicated to St. Brigid, Ireland’s only female patron saint.

The festival will feature a series of events throughout the weekend, including the installation and illumination of what is believed to be Ireland’s largest St. Brigid’s Cross at Tarmonbarry Bridge.

February 1st. Keenan’s of Tarmonbarry extends a warm invitation to female traditional musicians to join ‘The Bridies’ for a music session on Friday, February 2nd, starting at 8.30 pm.

Additionally, Rathcroghan Visitor Centre in Tulsk will host a two-lecture seminar reflecting on aspects of women in history on Saturday, February 3rd, commencing at 11.30 am more information available at rathcroghan.ie.

The Brigid’s Awakening Festival, generously supported by Roscommon County Council and the Creative Ireland Programme, encourages the community to immerse themselves in the timeless magic of Brendan Graham's compositions.

The Creative Ireland Programme, an all-of-Government initiative from 2023 to 2027, places a strong emphasis on placing creativity at the heart of public policy.

Don't miss this unique opportunity to witness the enchanting 'Storybook – The Songs of Brendan Graham' at Strokestown Park.

Secure your tickets now for an evening filled with musical brilliance and celebration at strokestownpark.ie/events or at the reception.